1️⃣ Structure the Report Clearly
- Executive Summary: Start with a short, neutral summary of the findings — objective and fact-based.
- Background: Include context: who was assessed, dates, sessions attended, and purpose of the evaluation.
- Methods: Clearly describe clinical tools, assessments, and observations used (standardized tests, structured interviews, behavioral observations).
- Findings: Stick to observable behaviors and measurable outcomes, not subjective opinions or labels.
- Conclusions & Recommendations: Focus on practical implications, e.g., parenting recommendations, coping strategies, and child wellbeing considerations.
Tip: Number each section and use headings — judges and lawyers appreciate clear navigation.
2️⃣ Focus on Objectivity
- Avoid emotional language — replace words like “manipulative” with behavioral descriptions.
- ❌ “The spouse is manipulative.”
- ✅ “The parent repeatedly contradicts the child’s statements, causing confusion and distress, as observed on [dates].”
- Include dates, specific examples, and direct quotes from sessions when relevant.
- Reference established psychological frameworks or diagnostic criteria where appropriate.
3️⃣ Evidence Points to Include
- Behavioral patterns: e.g., gaslighting, inconsistent parenting, emotional abuse, undermining of co-parent.
- Impact on children: anxiety, stress, or behavioural regression.
- Consistency: repeated observations across sessions, not one-off events.
- Collateral information: teachers, school reports, or medical notes that corroborate findings.
Tip: Courts value multiple sources of evidence that reinforce the psychologist’s conclusions.
4️⃣ Anticipate Challenges
- Expect the spouse to question the psychologist’s credibility. Counter this by:
- Listing qualifications, licenses, and years of experience.
- Documenting methods and standards followed.
- Keeping reports well-organized and free of personal commentary.
- Avoid including opinions about the spouse’s intentions; focus on observed effects and behaviors.
5️⃣ Presentation in Court
- Submit the report through your lawyer according to court rules.
- Highlight key points in bullet form for easy reference during hearings.
- If asked to discuss the report, stick to facts, avoid emotional commentary, and let the psychologist speak to clinical conclusions if called.
- Provide context for high-conflict behaviors without assigning blame — the court wants neutral guidance for decision-making.
6️⃣ Protective Measures
- Keep the report confidential until formally submitted. Manipulative spouses may try to preemptively misrepresent it.
- Save all raw data, session notes, and communication records for backup.
- Limit discussions of the report to lawyer and psychologist only.
7️⃣ Recommended Phrasing Techniques
- Use phrases like:
- “Observations indicate…”
- “Consistent patterns were noted…”
- “Clinical assessment suggests the child’s well-being is affected by…”
- “Recommendations are based on standardized evaluation and observed behavior.”
✅ Key Takeaway: The strongest report is neutral, structured, and evidence-based. Avoid labeling, focus on behavior and impact, and let professional authority speak for itself.
